The Power of Attitude: A Personal Journey of Growth
Introduction
Hi friends! I know it’s been a while since my last post, but life has been a whirlwind as I settle into my new role. I’m excited to share that for the next twelve months, I’ll be a full-time cast member with the Walt Disney World Experiences Team, working as a Canadian representative at the Canadian Pavilion in Epcot! This opportunity has been a significant part of my growth journey, where I’ve gained so many leadership insights in just over a month. Returning to the Disney groove, the vibrant and energetic atmosphere that is synonymous with Disney, reminded me of one of my favourite traits: my attitude and effort to radiate positivity to those around me.
Embracing change isn’t just a part of my journey; it's the joyous heart of it. I hope this blog gives you a glimpse into my path of embracing change, vulnerability, and confidence and how my attitude has shaped my direction in life.
Learning to Let Go
In previous posts, I’ve shared how, when I was younger, I felt like I had to shrink myself to fit in. Like many of us, I struggled with finding where I belonged and often muted parts of myself to avoid standing out. This feeling is universal: we all go through stages where we need to change who we are to be accepted by others.
Over the past few years, I’ve realized that letting go of what holds us back is essential for personal growth. We often cling to relationships, self-doubt, or fear of judgment, all of which can stifle our potential. Moving out independently at 18 was one of my most challenging but rewarding decisions. I had to let go of relationships that no longer served me, people who limited my growth by imposing their goals on me rather than supporting my own. This wasn’t easy, but it was necessary to become the person I wanted to be, and I encourage you to do the same in your own life.
Finding My Spark
That first year living independently was tough, but it forced me to confront parts of myself that I had long ignored. I had to deal with loneliness, fear, and uncertainty, but it was also when I found my spark. A pivotal moment came during my first Disney program, a unique and immersive experience that allowed me to be surrounded by like-minded people who shared my positive attitude and ambition. This program was a significant milestone in my journey, as it was where I realized the power of being in an environment that supports growth. We uplifted one another, encouraged each other's dreams, and shared a collective energy that pushed us forward. This experience was life-changing and helped me embrace my potential.
When I returned to Toronto, I carried the mindset and skills I had gained. I switched schools, changed my major, and moved into my apartment. During this time, I adopted my Chihuahua, Moose, who became my constant companion and best friend. All of these changes were steps toward the life I wanted to live, and my attitude played a crucial role in that transformation.
The Journey to Confidence
Since I started living for myself, my life has changed dramatically. People often compliment my confidence, telling me, "Never change!" But here’s the truth: I did have to adjust to become the person I am today. Growing up, I was quiet and reserved, always holding back out of fear of being “too much.” But the spark of who I am was always there; I just didn’t know where or how to express it safely.
The most significant shift happened when I started to embrace vulnerability. I learned that being called “too much” wasn’t a reflection of me; it was a reflection of those who weren’t ready to accept me as I was. The people who matter don’t find me “too much;” they celebrate my energy and personality. Being unapologetically myself has been my greatest strength.
But expressing your attitude doesn’t mean you must be loud or dominate a room. As Disney cast members say, we’re all "VIPs,” Very Individual Persons. There are countless ways to express your attitude, whether through quiet confidence, kindness, or simply staying true to your values. Your attitude should be an authentic expression of “you.”
Finding Hope Through Vulnerability
In my first year of university, I experienced a difficult period. I disappeared from social media, spent most of my time in my room, and felt uncertain about the future. It was a lonely and anxious time, and I struggled with mental health challenges that felt overwhelming.
Looking back, I realize the people I surrounded myself with didn’t support who I was or wanted to become. It wasn’t until I met friends who truly accepted me, allowing me to be vulnerable, that I began to open up. That vulnerability became the key to unlocking my potential. Complaining about life and feeling stuck didn’t get me anywhere; changing my mindset did. I learned nothing can change unless you’re willing to change your attitude first.
The Importance of Therapy and Self-Work
A pivotal moment in my journey was my decision to take therapy seriously. I remember telling my therapist that all I wanted was a friend to send TikToks to. That might sound small, but it symbolized the more profound loneliness I was experiencing. Slowly, therapy helped me open up and put in the work to heal. This journey of self-work wasn’t just about healing; it was about empowerment.
My mom has been a constant source of support. She allowed me to be vulnerable but clarified that I had to take responsibility for my growth. She couldn’t do the work for me, but she stood by me as I began to change my outlook on life. That’s one of the most important lessons I’ve learned: having a support system is essential, and it's comforting to know that it's there, but ultimately, the hard work has to come from within.
Overcoming Challenges
At just 20 years old, I’ve faced my share of challenges: moving out, working in a new country, and dealing with personal trauma. This trauma, which I may share more about in the future, was a significant turning point in my journey. Every experience has shaped me into the person I am today. Every mistake has been a learning opportunity, and every difficult situation has taught me to find the positive. I’ve come to realize that my attitude is what has helped me overcome these challenges.
We all face tough times, but comparing our struggles to others won’t help. Everyone has their journey, and focusing on self-awareness can change how you approach life. My grandma recently told me that some lessons I’ve learned are things her friends still haven’t figured out, even at their age. And that’s okay; we’re all on our paths. But I’ve learned that working on your attitude and mindset can make all the difference.
Conclusion
As I continue this journey, I’ve realized that sometimes we have to let go of things, or people, who aren’t willing to grow with us. It’s not easy, but it’s essential for our progress. I’ve learned that attitude is everything. It gets me through the tough days and allows me to spread positivity to those around me. However, having a good attitude doesn’t mean being loud or overwhelming. It means being authentic to yourself. There are countless ways to express attitude, and we’re all unique in how we do it.
Thank you for reading, and I hope this blog encourages you to reflect on your attitude. Remember, no matter what life throws at you, your attitude will shape how you move forward. Stay true to yourself, and embrace your journey.
